Brown Sugar Chicken BBQ: Summer Grilling’s Most Irresistible Recipe

Juicy Brown Sugar Chicken BBQ – Perfect Summer Grilling

Making the perfect chicken BBQ doesn’t have to be complicated. This mouthwatering recipe features a simple brown sugar rub that caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating that irresistible smoky-sweet flavor everyone loves. The homemade BBQ sauce takes this dish to the next level, resulting in succulent, juicy chicken that will be the star of your backyard gatherings!

Why This Brown Sugar Chicken BBQ Will Become Your Go-To Grilling Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet brown sugar, smoky grill flavors, and tangy BBQ sauce. This recipe harnesses all three to create chicken that’s:

• Perfectly caramelized on the outside
• Juicy and tender on the inside
• Infused with flavor through a simple but effective marinade
• Crowd-pleasing for both kids and adults
• Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients

Ingredients You’ll Need for Amazing Chicken BBQ

For the Brown Sugar Rub:

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Chicken:

• 3 pounds chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts with skin on)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Homemade BBQ Sauce:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Grilled Chicken BBQ

1. Prepare the Brown Sugar Rub

   In a mortar and pestle, mash together the brown sugar, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until it forms a paste. If you don’t have a mortar and pestle, mix these ingredients in a small bowl, pressing with the back of a spoon to combine thoroughly.

2. Marinate the Chicken

   Transfer the sugar-garlic paste to a large resealable plastic bag. Add the chicken pieces and massage the bag to coat all pieces evenly with the paste. Squeeze out excess air, seal the bag, and refrigerate. For best flavor development, marinate for at least 1 hour, but preferably overnight.

3. Make the BBQ Sauce

   While the chicken is marinating, combine all BBQ sauce ingredients in a small saucepan. Simmer over low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Set aside to cool.

4. Prepare the Grill

   Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-375°F). For a gas grill, turn on one side to medium and leave the other side off for indirect cooking. For charcoal, arrange coals on one side, creating direct and indirect heat zones.

5. Start Grilling

   Remove chicken from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Brush with olive oil and place skin-side down on the direct heat side of the grill. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until nicely marked and the skin starts to crisp.

6. Use Indirect Heat

   Move the chicken to the indirect heat zone, skin side up. Close the grill lid and continue cooking for about 20-25 minutes.

7. Apply the BBQ Sauce

   Start basting the chicken with your homemade BBQ sauce. Apply a generous coat, close the lid, and cook for 5 minutes. Repeat this process 2-3 more times, flipping occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for breasts and 175°F for thighs and drumsticks.

8. Rest and Serve

   Transfer the grilled chicken BBQ to a clean platter and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum juiciness.

Pro Tips for Chicken BBQ Success

• Temperature control is key: Keep your grill at a consistent medium heat to avoid burning the sugar in the rub.
• Wait to apply BBQ sauce: Only start basting with sauce during the last 15 minutes of cooking to prevent burning.
• Use a meat thermometer: This is the most reliable way to ensure perfectly cooked chicken.
• Choose the right chicken pieces: Dark meat (thighs and drumsticks) tends to stay juicier on the grill than breast meat.
• Don’t rush: Low and slow is the secret to tender, flavorful BBQ chicken.

Serving Suggestions for Your Chicken BBQ

This delicious grilled chicken pairs perfectly with:

• Classic creamy coleslaw
• Corn on the cob
• Baked beans
• Potato salad
• Grilled vegetables
• Mac and cheese

Storage and Reheating Instructions

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat in a 300°F oven covered with foil until warmed through (about 15-20 minutes). Add a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent drying out.

Nutrition Information

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken BBQ

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Boneless chicken works great but will cook faster. Reduce cooking time by about 5-10 minutes and be extra vigilant with your meat thermometer to prevent overcooking.

Can I make this chicken BBQ in the oven?

Absolutely! Bake at 375°F for about 35-45 minutes, basting with BBQ sauce during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Yes, while homemade sauce has a fresher flavor, a good quality store-bought BBQ sauce works well as a time-saver.

How do I know when my chicken is done?

Chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for white meat and 175°F for dark meat. A good meat thermometer is essential for perfect results.

This chicken BBQ recipe with its sweet brown sugar rub and tangy homemade sauce is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Perfect for summer cookouts, weekend family dinners, or anytime you’re craving that irresistible combination of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors!